Printing computing device for operating a multi-function printing device

ABSTRACT

A printing computing device connects to a multi-function printing (MFP) device to enable additional functionality and capabilities not offered by the MFP device. The printing computing device connects to a network to receive print jobs from external devices within the network. The printing computing device processes the print jobs according to rules such that print jobs are processed accordingly. The printing computing device also includes firmware not available on the MFP device such that print jobs not supported by the MFP device still may be processed. The printing computing device also includes an engine that determines whether an incoming print job is a PDL print job or a command to perform a function not available on the MFP device.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a portable device having a page description language and raster image processor system that connects to a multi-functional printing device to provide additional capabilities and functionalities.

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELATED ART

Printers and associated equipment may have slower upgrade cycles and retain legacy printer engines. The initial high costs of printer engines result in older printer engines being kept longer in offices even if not used. There is less demand for newer printer engines or other features. Further, several months may pass between product releases due to development issues in hardware or software. Moreover, the cost of fixing firmware issues or doing firmware upgrades may be costly. Not only in terms of hardware replacements or software updates, but also with technicians visiting the customers to perform these actions.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A printing computing device for printing documents from an external device at a multi-function printing (MFP) device attached to a network is disclosed. The printing computing device includes a print job manager to schedule a print job received over the network. The printing computing device also includes an engine to determine whether the print job is a page description language (PDL) print job. The printing computing device also includes a raster image processing (RIP) firmware to process the PDL print job from the print job manager. The RIP firmware comprises a PDL interpreter and a graphics rendering component. The printing computing device also includes a communication layer to download the processed PDL print job to the attached MFP device.

A method for processing a print job at a printing computing device for a MFP device is disclosed. The printing computing device is connected to an external device through a network. The method includes determining whether a print job received from the external device is a PDL print job using an engine. The method also includes determining whether to process the PDL print job using a raster image processing (RIP) firmware within the printing computing device. The method also includes processing the PDL print job using the RIP firmware. The method also includes sending the processed PDL print job to a communication layer for download to the MFP device. The processed PDL print job is in a format ready for printing by the MFP device.

A method for using a printing computing device with a MFP device in a network having an external device to send print jobs to the MFP device is disclosed. The method includes receiving a print job at a print job manager within the printing computing device. The method also includes analyzing a header of the print job using an engine when scheduled by the print job manager. The method also includes determining whether the print job is a PDL print job according to the header. The method also includes determining a format for the PDL print job by the engine based on the MFP device. The method also includes processing the PDL print job according to the format using a RIP firmware in the printing computing device. The method also includes downloading the processed PDL print job to the MFP device using a communication layer within the printing computing device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various other features and attendant advantages of the present invention will be more fully appreciated when considered in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram of a system for performing printing operations using a printing computing device according to the disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 2 illustrates a block diagram of components of the MFP used in conjunction with the printing computing device according to the disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram of the components for the printing computing device according to the disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 4 illustrates a block diagram of the components for use with mobile applications system services according to the disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 5 illustrates a flowchart for configuring a printing computing device when connected to a MFP according to the disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 6 illustrates a flowchart for processing a print job or a printcast command using the printing computing device according to the disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 7 illustrates a flowchart for processing a print job on a MFP using a printing computing device according to the disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 8 illustrates a flowchart for processing a PDL print job in the printing computing device according to the disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 9 illustrates a flowchart for translating a PDL print job to native PDL using the printing computing device according to the disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 10 illustrates a flowchart for generating a raster image in a supported image format from a print job using the printing computing device according to the disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 11 illustrates a flowchart for generating a print job in a native format using the printing computing device according to the disclosed embodiments.

FIG. 12 illustrates a flowchart for translating a print job to a third-party PDL using the printing computing device according to the disclosed embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Reference will now be made in detail to specific embodiments of the present invention. Examples of these embodiments are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. Numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. While the embodiments will be described in conjunction with the drawings, it will be understood that the following description is not intended to limit the present invention to any one embodiment. On the contrary, the following description is intended to cover alternatives, modifications, and equivalents as may be included within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. Numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention.

The disclosed embodiments include a printing computing device having a page description language (PDL) or raster image processor (RIP) system. The printing computing device may be an external computing device with a computer processing unit, a memory, and an operating system. The printing computing device also includes connectivity interfaces to connect to existing printer devices. It also implements networking capability to advertise itself as another printer device on a network.

The term of printing computing device may refer to a portable device that is attached to a MFP or any other device having the features disclosed below. The term “printcast” also may be used within the present specification to refer to the printing computing device, such as a printcast printing computing device or printcast computing device. The printing computing device also may be known as a portable device, such as a portable printing computing device or a portable printing computing system.

The disclosed printcast printing computing device supports connectivity interfaces with the printer device and new PDL technologies. It also receives firmware upgrades from servers for performing engine firmware upgrades or maintenance. When connected, the printcast printing computing device detects native PDLs supported in the printer device and provides a pass-through for those PDLs. The printcast printing computing device may translate unsupported PDL to native PDL, or basic raster formats, like JPEG/TIFF supported by the printer engine. This feature allows compatibility with any printer, even those from other manufacturers.

The printcast printing computing device also may override engine firmware components if the PDL RIP firmware in the device is more “up-to-date” and includes new features missing on the printer engine. It also helps test a firmware upgrade before it is installed as a final firmware upgrade to the engine. Dumb printers may be developed with the RIP override feature such that RIP functionality exists and operates externally of the printer. The printcast printing computing device also may host imaging applications that receive images or data from mobile applications, web applications, or desktop devices to print to the printer engine. The printcast printing computing device may register to enterprise printer management tools for device manageability.

The existing printer driver and its associated print queue may still be available for use as normal. In other words, if a user selects the print queue associated with the printer device, then the user will have the same printer features and capabilities as provided by the legacy printer engine and printer driver for the print queue. A print queue, with a corresponding printer driver for the printcast printing computing device will appear as a printer device to allow the new functionalities and capabilities to be added onto the legacy or third-party printer devices. If the user selects the printcast printing computing device print queue as the destination for a print job, then the new features that are not necessarily present or unsupported in the printer engine but supported by the printcast computing device may be available to the user. The user can access the new printer features that the printcast printing computing device can perform and print using the printer engine.

In another embodiment, the print queue or printer driver, which normally has a printer port configured to point to an MFP or printer, may be configured to have a printer port that points, instead, to a printcast printing computing device. It is for technical accuracy to ensure that the disclosed embodiments support printing from the printer driver to the printcast device. A printer port, such as the one in a Windows™ Operating System, is managed by a port monitor and serves as a connection between the printer driver or print queue to a printer. The printer port also may be the means of connection between the printer driver or print queue and the printcast printing computing device. In this configuration, the printer driver, through the port configured as the IP address of the printcast printing computing device, would send the print driver generated print job to the networked printcast printing computing device. In the configuration, the user will be able to take advantage of the printer driver features and, at the same time, apply and take advantage of the printcast printing computing device features. This feature also implies that any printer driver may be pointed and associated with the networked printcast printing computing device.

Definitions

MFP—Multi-Function (or Functional) Printer or Printing Device.

PDL—Page Description Language, a type of programming language that describes the document or pages in a print job. Examples of PDLs are Printer Command Language (PCL) 5, PCLXL, or PCL 6, and PostScript. Portable Document Format (PDF) and XML Paper Specification (XPS) also belong to this group. Image formats, such as JPG and TIFF, which also can be printed, are special cases that are handled by the PDL.

RIP—Raster Image Processor, a firmware component that includes PDL interpreters. This feature is disclosed in greater detail below.

Print File, Print Job, or Test File—A computer file that contains PDL commands and is raw printable data for the MFP. A print job is the output of the printer driver. It is a binary representation in one of the PDL formats, such as PCL, PDF, or XPS.

Graphics Rendering Component—An internal component in the RIP firmware that translates the PDL commands or data into binary data that that MFP engine can understand. This is similar to machine language to which programming languages are translated so that computing devices can understand. The binary data is such that the Graphics Rendering Level will be understood by the hardware and converted to actual drawing or pixels on the paper. This component is disclosed in greater detail below.

GEU—Graphics Execution Unit, a hardware component at the engine that executes the Orderlist generated from the Graphics Rendering Component to create a raster representation of the print job or document.

Printer Driver—A device driver in Windows™ or other operating systems that translates a document into a print job.

Graphics Orderlist—A binary data representation to which PDL commands are translated by the Graphic Rendering Component. Graphics Orderlists are low-level graphics instructions that the MFP hardware understands and processes to translate to actual markings on a page. Like machine language for a computer, the Graphics Orderlist is a language that the MFP will understand.

Band Data—A row of binary data of results from the processing of the Graphics Orderlist. It appears like a pixmap or bitmap image representation of the page. A page consists of rows of band data. The size of each one may be the same, such as 128 bytes. In some embodiments, the height of each band may be dynamic. The width may be the width of the page to be rendered.

Dumb Printer—An idea of a printer engine that does not have RIP firmware. Raster image processing is performed external of the printer. The printer receives fully rendered pages in either graphics orderlist form or raster form (band data) that the printer engine can process for actual markings on the paper.

The disclosed embodiments may add new PDL technologies to legacy or third-party MFPs. This feature may extend the life of older printer engines as opposed to placing the printer engines or MFPs into storage or the trash. Many companies hesitate to get rid of older printers and keep them. The printcast printing computing device allows one to keep and utilize the legacy printers. The disclosed embodiments also allow for the usage of third-party MFPs as part of the devices managed through the printcast printing device.

The disclosed printcast printing computing device also may allow use of up-to-date RIP firmware to override legacy, older, or less-capable RIP firmware. This feature offers full RIP firmware functionality that can replace or override printer RIP firmware to utilize or configure dumb printers. The disclosed device also provides better performance than engine hardware components because portable computing devices would have up-to-date CPUs, more memory, and other components such as upgraded graphics processing units. It may add new capabilities like mobile application scan-to-print capabilities to regular printers (non-MFPs). The engine may be managed through information technology tools as opposed to hardware or software upgrades at the printer.

The printcast printing technology embodied in the disclosed device may avoid several situations and problems for users of printers and MFPs. For example, engine issues would be by-passed when the MFP or printer engine includes obsolete firmware, a hardware bug, or a performance issue by printing through the printcast printing computing device disclosed herein. If a firmware upgrade needs to be done, the printcast printing computing device operating system or application can query or receive notification from the IT enterprise servers. Then, it can download the firmware and refresh the engine with the new firmware. This feature may save the company the cost of sending technicians to the field.

When an enterprise environment only has older or third-party engines, the disclosed printing device can translate new PDLs or file formats and download a backward compatible print job to the older and third-party engines, especially when a user desires to print with one of the new PDL formats. Older and less capable printers will have additional use through the new technologies that the printing device can provide. Engine firmware and hardware become old or obsolete. Better hardware and firmware components are developed. After a certain amount of time, legacy printers and systems are not even supported. New networking and printing software technologies are developed faster than the rate of printer firmware and hardware development. Companies rarely upgrade the older engines to have the newer technologies. For example, older printer engines may not support the latest printing platform or protocols. Using the disclosed printing device, the legacy or third-party engines would be available without the need for significant upgrades.

Because upgrades are provided through a printcast device, a cheaper alternative is provided to users. The disclosed embodiments may be less costly than new MFP engine hardware. Enterprise management tools will be able to manage even the legacy and third-party MFPs as part of a common set of devices with similar capabilities and features with the technologies provided in the printcast printing computing device. By hosting applications in the device with wifi and networking capabilities, it is possible to enable cloud support on engines, without the need to add those features on the engine firmware.

FIG. 1 depicts a block diagram of a system 100 for performing printing operations using a printcast printing computing device 102 according to the disclosed embodiments. System 100 may be an example of network architecture to illustrate how printcast device 102 is used in conjunction with MFP 104. As shown, printcast device 102 is a separate component that may attach to MFP 104. Printcast device 102 may be a USB device to engage a USB port on MFP 104.

Printcast device 102 also connects to network 108 to communicate with other components within system 100, such as mobile device 110, computer 112, or server 114. As can be appreciated, system 100 may include many additional components that send tasks to MFP 104. Mobile device 110 may be a handheld or portable computing device, such as a smartphone, that sends files for processing by MFP 104. For example, mobile device 110 may send pictures to be printed on MFP 104. Computer 112 may be a desktop or laptop computer connected to network 108 to also utilize MFP 104. Server 114 may be a data storage device that provides upgrades to MFP 104. These upgrades may be software upgrades or patches for software or firmware components on MFP 104. Server 114 also may communicate with printcast device 102. Printcast device 102 and MFP 104 may send information to server 114 for storage. Mobile device 110, computer 112, and server 114 may run applications internally to perform printing and scanning operations. Cloud storage 116 may be internet or cloud based storage location.

Printcast device 102 connects directly to engine 106 of MFP 104. It provides all of the new technologies such as new PDLs and mobile applications to be available for engine 106 and the users of MFP 104. As noted above, printcast device 102 may be a separate computing device that is attached to MFP 104. As a computing device with networking connectivity, printcast device 102 also may be organized as a cluster fleet of cooperating devices to make available new technologies throughout network 108, including support for older and third-party engines. Printcast device 102 may receive print job parts from other printcast printing computing devices, such as printcast devices 102X and 102Y, or printers, such as MFP 120, for remote processing. This feature assists busy printer engines or busy portable printing devices.

In this scenario, existing printers may continue to receive print jobs from network 108 from many users. More users may be sending tasks to the same printing device, thereby making it a bottleneck for printing. Connected printcast device 102 would be so busy that it will not be able to immediately send jobs to connected printer engine 106. In some embodiments, it is possible to send the job to one or more printcast printing computing devices for remote processing. The job is returned to the originating printing device. The print job would be pre-processed or pre-rendered. Users will not have to wait longer to receive the printouts. Printcast device 102 includes the capability to divide and distribute complex print jobs with other portable printing computing devices.

Printcast device 102 supports various connectivity features as an external but portable software, firmware, or device. The connectivity features include, but are not limited to, wifi, local area networks, NFC, parallel port, serial port, USB printer port, USB data port, Bluetooth, internet and the like. Further connectivity features to a printer, computer, both wireless and wired, can be added, integrated, and supported.

Input data for printcast device 102 may be received from a connection 122, which may be wireless. For example, if printcast device 102 is a USB computing device, then the data would come through wireless or wired connection 122 connected to network 108. If printcast device 102 is a mobile computer, then data may come through input ports connected through a wireless or wired connection 122. Printcast device 102 also generates output data through its various connectivity ports. The connectivity ports may be a USB data port, a USB printer port, wifi, NFC, Bluetooth, TCP/IP, and the like. Printcast device 102 may connect to any input ports in MFP 104 and also may include wired, wireless, or direct connections.

Printcast device 102 may be a USB computing device, an HDMI computing device, a Blackberry Pi™ device, a personal computer, a mobile or smartphone device, a tablet, a mini personal computer, and the like. In some embodiments, it may be possible to integrate printcast device 102 inside MFP 104 because the printcast device includes functions that can be implemented entirely in software or firmware. Printcast device 102 may be MFP firmware component or an application residing and hosted in a flash memory area. The behavior of a locally hosted application or firmware component may function like printcast device 102, disclosed below, as long as it is upgradeable and provides the features disclosed below. The capabilities that the disclosed embodiments are aiming to provide can all be performed in any computing device that can be connected either by wire or wirelessly to any imaging device like MFP 104 or a printer engine.

An example of MFP 104 architecture may be shown in FIG. 2. The architecture shown in FIG. 2 may apply to any multi-functional printer or image forming apparatus that scans documents to perform other functions, such as printing, storing, copying, and the like. Printcast device 102, as shown, is connected to engine 106, which, in turn, is connected to the other components of MFP 104.

MFP 104 includes a computing platform 201 that performs operations to support these functions. Computing platform 201 includes a computer processing unit (CPU) 202, an image forming unit 204, a memory unit 206, and a network communication interface 210. Other components may be included but are not shown for brevity. MFP 104, using computing platform 201, may be configured to perform various operations, such as scanning, copying, printing, receiving or sending a facsimile, or document processing. As such, MFP 104 may be a printing device or a multi-function peripheral including a scanner, and one or more functions of a copier, a facsimile device, and a printer. To provide these functions, MFP 104 includes printer components 220 to perform printing operations, copier components 222 to perform copying operations, scanner components 224 to perform scanning operations, and facsimile components 226 to receive and send facsimile documents. CPU 202 may issue instructions to these components to perform the desired operations.

MFP 104 also includes a finisher 211 and one or more paper cassettes 212. Finisher 211 includes rotatable downstream rollers to move papers with an image formed surface after the desired operation to a tray. Finisher 211 also may perform additional actions, such as sorting the finished papers, binding sheets of papers with staples, doubling, creasing, punching holes, folding, and the like. Paper cassettes 212 supply paper to image the various components 220, 222, 224, and 226 to create the image formed surfaces on the papers. Paper cassettes 212 may include papers having various sizes, colors, composition, and the like. Paper cassettes 212 may be removed to refill as needed.

Document processor input feeder tray 230 may be the physical components of MFP 104 to receive papers and documents to be processed. A document is placed on or in document processor input feeder tray 230, which moves the document to other components within MFP 104. The movement of the document from document processor input feeder tray 230 may be controlled by the instructions input by the user. For example, the document may move to a scanner flatbed for scanning operations. Thus, document processor input feeder tray 230 provides the document to scanner components 220. As shown in FIG. 2, document processor input feeder tray 230 may interact with engine firmware 106 to perform the desired operations.

Memory unit 206 includes memory storage locations 214 to store instructions 215. Instructions 215 are executable on CPU 202 or other processors associated with MFP 104, such as any processors within components 220, 222, 224, or 226. Memory unit 206 also may store information for various programs and applications, as well as data specific to MFP 104. For example, a storage location 214 may include data for running an operating system executed by computing platform 201 to support the components within MFP 104.

Memory unit 206 may comprise volatile and non-volatile memory. Volatile memory may include random access memory (RAM). Examples of non-volatile memory may include read-only memory (ROM), flash memory, electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), digital tape, a hard disk drive (HDD), or a solid-state drive (SSD). Memory unit 206 also includes any combination of readable or writable volatile memories or non-volatile memories, along with other possible memory devices.

Computing platform 201 may host one or more processors, such as CPU 202. These processors are capable of executing instructions 215 stored at one or more storage locations 214. By executing these instructions, the processors cause MFP 104 to perform various operations. The processors also may incorporate processing units for specific purposes, such as application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) and field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs). Other processors may be included for executing operations particular to components 220, 222, 224, and 226. In other words, the particular processors cause MFP 104 to act as a printer, copier, scanner, and a facsimile device.

MFP 104 also includes an operations panel 208, which may be connected to computing platform 201. Operations panel 208 may include a display unit 216 and an input unit 217 for facilitating interaction with a user to provide commands to MFP 104. Display unit 216 may be any electronic video display, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD). Input unit 217 may include any combination of devices that allow users to input information into operations panel 208, such as buttons, a touch screen, a keyboard or keypad, switches, dials, and the like. Preferably, input unit 217 includes a touch-screen digitizer overlaid onto display unit 216 that senses touch to receive inputs from the user. By this manner, the user interacts with display unit 216. Printcast device 102 may be connected via operations panel 208 to engine 106.

MFP 104 also includes network communication processing unit 218. Network communication processing unit 218 may establish a network communication, such as a wireless or wired connection with one or more other image forming apparatuses and a server in an image forming system. CPU 202 may instruct network communication processing unit 218 to transmit or retrieve information over a network using network communication interface 210. As data is received at computing platform 201 over a network, network communication processing unit 218 decodes the incoming packets and delivers them to CPU 202. CPU 202 may act accordingly by causing operations to occur on MFP 104. CPU 202 also may retrieve information stored in memory unit 206, such as settings for MFP 104.

MFP 104 also includes engine 106. Engine 106 may be a combination of hardware, firmware, or software components that act accordingly to accomplish a task. For example, engine 106 is comprised of the components and software to print a document. It may receive instructions from computing platform 201 after user input via operations panel 208. Alternatively, engine 106 may receive instructions from printcast device 102.

Engine 106 manages and operates the low-level mechanism of the MFP engine, such as hardware components that actuate placement of toner onto paper. Engine firmware 106 may manage and coordinate the half-toner, toner cartridges, rollers, schedulers, storage, input/output operations, and the like. The raster image processor (RIP) firmware that interprets the page description languages (PDLs) would transmit and send instructions down to the lower-level engine 106 for actual rendering of an image and application of the toner onto paper during operations on MFP 104.

FIG. 3 depicts a block diagram of the components for printcast device 102 according to the disclosed embodiments. Additional components may be implemented within printcast device 102. Printcast device 102 includes printcast printing computing system 300 that provides the functionality to enable the device to manage print jobs and interact with MFP 104 and engine 106. In some embodiments, printcast printing computing system 300 may be referred to as a printcast system. Printcast system 300 is disclosed in greater detail below.

Printcast device 102 also includes components that may enable the device to stand alone as a computing device, such as processor 302 and memory 304. Processor 302 executes instructions and commands. It also instructs the other components to perform actions. Memory 304 may store the instructions executed by processor 302. Memory 304 also stores data and information for use by components within printcast device 102. Processor 302 and memory 304 may be connected by bus 390.

Bus 390 also connects other components in printcast device 102 to processor 302 and memory 304. Operating system 306 is provided. Operating system 306 may be a mobile operating system that provides the software platform for other programs to run on printcast device 102. Operating system 306 is responsible for determining the functions and features available on printcast device 102. For example, operating system 306 allows printcast system 300 to run within printcast device 102.

Printcast device 102 may include a power supply 308. In some embodiments, power supply 308 may be stand alone, such that printcast device 102 does not need to draw power from another source. In some embodiments, power supply 308 may obtain power from a connected device, such as MFP 104. Power supply 308 may use one or more connectors 310 to draw power. For example, if printcast device 102 is connected to a USB hub or port, then connectors 310 may be two wires within the USB interface to connect to power within MFP 104.

Printcast device 102 also may receive and send data over network 108 as well as to the connected MFP 104. Input 312 and output 314 represent the capability to exchanges data, such as over wireless connection 122. Input 312 and output 314 also may include the wires through the USB cable to MFP 104 from printcast device 102, if applicable. Input 312 may include multiple input ports while output 314 may include multiple output ports. Input 312 and output 314 may receive commands and data from printcast system 300 as well as provide data when received from network 108.

Printcast system 300 includes components that allow it to support connectivity with network 108 and provide the functions disclosed in greater detail to manage MFP 104 and engine 106. These components are shown in FIG. 3.

Print job manager 320 is a firmware component that receives print jobs from network 108 or any of the supported connectivity methods. Print job manager 320 also may receive print jobs from other printcast devices 102. It arranges the incoming data into unique print jobs. Print job manager 320 may identify each print job with a job identification (ID), a timestamp, user/owner IDs, and similar data for the purposes of job scheduling, document tracking, and job management purposes. After completing these tasks, print job manager 320 schedules the sending of the print jobs to MFP 104 and relays them down to RIP firmware 322.

RIP firmware 322 is a full raster image processor that provides functionality to printcast system 300. RIP firmware 322 may provide all the capabilities of a RIP firmware in a printer engine except for the actual rendering on paper. The rendering may be done by engine 106 of MFP 104. RIP firmware 322 includes the following sub-components of PDL interpreter 330 and graphics rendering component 332. These are disclosed in greater detail below.

PDL interpreter 330 performs the parsing and processing of the print jobs managed by print job manager 320. The page description languages supported by printcast system 300 and printcast device 102 are those that are newer versions or more up-to-date versions of the PDL interpreters already installed and supported by the firmware of engine 106. PDL interpreter 330 also may be a totally different, new, and unsupported PDL interpreter from the one installed for engine 106. In this latter scenario, PDL interpreter 330 is a new technology provided by printcast device 102. It may be a new XPS interpreter, a new PDF interpreter, a personalized print markup language (PPML) interpreter, or some future PDL processor. In some embodiments, printcast system 300 may have access to several PDL interpreters such that it calls on the one related to needs of MFP 104 and network 108.

Graphics rendering component 332 is the second sub-component of RIP firmware 322. PDL interpreter 330 interacts with graphics rendering component 332 for the translation of PDL commands to generate a graphics order list. The graphics order list is a list of graphics orders. It is a low-level binary data similar to assembly language or computer machine language. The graphics orders are the actual configuration and drawing commands that may be executed and processed by engine 106. Graphics rendering component 332 may produce a logical representation of the page for the document, which is a raster image or some other encoded representation. In some embodiments, graphics rendering component 332 may execute and process the graphics orderlist to generate several bands of data that can be downloaded to engine 106 of MFP 104 for final processing to put markings on the paper.

Output from graphics rendering component 332 may be packaged in at least two ways to engine 106. One way may be the PDL print jobs translated so that the target MFP 104 or printer engine 106 can process. Another way may be a wrapped raster image in a new kind of print job that can be processed directly at MFP 104 or printer engine 106. The raster image is the binary data representation of the incoming print job after getting processed through PDL interpreter 330 and graphics rendering component 332. It is possible to generate a compressed raster image that can be downloaded to engine 106 that would allow MFP 104 to skip further RIP processing. The raster image may be directly processed for putting marking or ink onto the paper when printing. This action is disclosed in greater detail below.

Printcast system 300 also includes printcast engine 324. Printcast engine 324 is a management mechanism for the main printcast system 300 features and functionalities. Printcast engine 324 communicates with printer drivers for the identification, settings, and capabilities of printcast device 102. It also advertises printcast device 102 as another print queue in the network. Printcast engine 324 also receives and processes print jobs from print job manager 320 and decides when to pass through the PDL print job or the processing of the PDL print job in RIP firmware 322. It also supports managing, launching, and coordinating with hosted mobile applications system service 326. Printcast engine 324 self-upgrades with a newer version from server 114 through network 108. Printcast engine 324 downloads and installs firmware upgrades from the connected imaging devices, such as MFP 104, if permitted and applicable.

Printcast engine 324 may receive at least two types of data for print jobs. These print jobs may be called printcast command “print jobs” and PDL print jobs. The print jobs differ in what each one has printcast printing computing device 102 accomplish. Some may instruct printcast system 300 to perform specific operations while others just may send instructions to MFP 104. Printcast engine 324 determines the type of print job received and acts accordingly. The functions associated with each type of data are disclosed in greater detail below.

A printcast command print job may be received from administrators, computers, devices or mobile devices connected to network 108. These commands may call on printcast printing computing device 102 to perform certain operations on print engine 324, or engine 106, such as upgrades and launches. Printcast system 300 will execute the operations. An upgrade command instructs printcast system 300 to perform a firmware upgrade and may have syntax relating to an upgrade path or the like. The path parameter may be optional and is for the path to firmware upgrade package. In other words, “path” directs printcast system 300 where to obtain the firmware upgrade package in system 100. If there is no “path” parameter, then printcast system 300 will look for the firmware upgrade package from a designated local server, such as server 114, an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) website, or safe internet/cloud storage 116. As a stand-alone printcast printing computing device 102, a new tool may be capable to perform firmware upgrades on connected imaging devices, such as MFP 104.

Another command for printcast system 300 is for launching mobile application services. This command may have syntax of launch app service name. The parameter “app service name” is desired to determine the service application to launch. There may be several mobile application services that are developed and hosted on printcast printing computing device 102 using processor 302. Examples of launch commands may be launch scanner mobile service application or launch document converter service application.

Other printcast commands may be developed, integrated, and implemented for printcast system 300. These commands may instruct printcast engine 324 to perform other printer engine management routines or launch other mobile application services. The launched mobile application services would interface with corresponding mobile application in external computing devices, such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, desktops, and the like. The external mobile applications will be able to perform the implied functionalities for processing external documents. In other words, the mobile applications act as printer software that cooperates with printcast printing computing device 102 to download or process a job on the connected MFP 104. This process is disclosed in greater detail below.

Because printcast commands will be received through the same channels of PDL print jobs, printcast engine 324 must have a way to distinguish the print jobs from each other. Printcast commands, however, should be packaged to work within the current PDL print job framework so that they look like any other PDL print jobs. Thus, printcast commands may have a header section and trailer section that wrap the main printcast commands. The sections include header data and trailer data that identify the data segment as a special printcast command “print job” so that printcast engine 324 and printcast system 300 can act accordingly.

For example, a possible printcast command “print job” may be:

-   -   255072696E744361737421 (header section)

Command [parameter]

-   -   255072696E74436173742121 (trailer section)

The header data is an encoded start identifier, which, for this example, is “% PrintCast!” in hexadecimal numeric encoding. The trailer data is an encoded end identifier, which, for the example, is “% PrintCast!!” in hexadecimal numeric encoding. This feature may be enhanced and re-defined further to use other encoding, encryption, and formatting standards, such as the use of XML or HTML formatting. It also is possible to include more than one printcast command between the header and trailer sections. Printcast engine 324 may do a pre-parsing of the header data to identify whether the incoming print job data is a PDL print job or a printcast command print job. Some examples of printcast command operations may be as a firmware upgrade, a mobile scanning and print operation, or document conversion. These examples processes are disclosed in greater detail below.

Printcast engine 324 also receives PDL print jobs from components within system 100. Print jobs are received, as scheduled, from print job manager 320. If the print job request is a regular print job, then printcast printing computing device 102 treats it like a normal print job would be treated at MFP 104, except with some differences. Printcast engine 324 may either process PDL print jobs locally in printcast device 102 through RIP firmware 322 or relay down, or pass-through, to MFP 104.

Printcast printing computing system 300 also includes input/output and communication layer (hereinafter communication layer) 328, which may be an interface layer for management of connected devices, both input and output. This may be through device drivers, operating system 306, a TCP/IP interface, or other connectivity technologies. The input aspect is for networking connectivity by interfacing with print job manager 320 for the receipt of the print jobs, responding to queries for system capabilities, and coordinating and communicating between mobile application system services 326 and external mobile application clients. The output aspect is for interfacing with the connected printing or imaging device, such as MFP 104 or engine 106. Communication layer 328 also transmits or downloads a rendered or pass-through print job within printcast printing computing system 300. Communication layer 328 may be connected to MFP 104 through a wired, wireless, or direction connection, shown as connectors 310 in FIG. 3.

Printcast printing computing system 300 also includes mobile applications system services 326. As fully functional computing device with operating system 306, memory 304, processor 302, and networking connectivity through input 312 and output 314, software services can be hosted, function, and operate in printcast device 102. Examples of categories or types of applications that can be launched by printcast printing computing system 300 are scanning software for printers that are not multi-functional, document conversion software, on-demand printing, or administrative applications. Administrative applications include one that can instruct printcast engine 324 to do firmware upgrade, reboot, reset, wake-up, and the like.

A server-like system services component is integrated into printcast printing computing device 102, and managed through printcast engine 324. By interfacing with printcast engine 324, mobile application system services 326 can run locally in printcast device 102, as shown in FIG. 4. The applications of mobile application system services 326 can have varied features like image processing, document conversion functionalities, document storage, user account management, and the like. Application interface (API) services are provided to clients that would be external to printcast device 102, such as components connected through network 108, or client applications 402. Client applications 402 may reside on mobile devices 110 or computers 112. As discussed above, client applications 402 may act as an extension to engine 106 via printcast engine 324 in that functionality is provided by the external applications to perform operations using the engine in MFP 104.

MFP 104 receives the output data from printcast printing computing device 102. MFP 104 and engine 106 process the data like other incoming print jobs or communications from network 108. In some embodiments, no change on the hardware or firmware components of MFP 104 or engine 106 is required for upgrades as printcast device 102 provides the new features and capabilities to the existing device.

It is possible to integrate technologies defined in the disclosed technology in order to enhance and improve the performance and processing efficiency of the interaction between MFP 104 and printcast printing computing system 300. For example, engine 106 of MFP 104 may have an upgraded firmware that communicates with a connected printcast device 102. All incoming print jobs that printcast device 102 will process can be formatted in a certain way that is compatible with the upgraded interaction and communication path. The print jobs also are processed more efficiently when received at MFP 104.

FIG. 5 depicts a flowchart 500 for configuring printcast printing computing device 102 when connected to MFP 104 according to the disclosed embodiments. Whenever printcast device 102 is connected to an imaging device, such as MFP 104, it may configure itself in order to determine and enable its features and capabilities. Printcast engine 324 may use the data about the connected imaging device to determine how it will function. Flowchart 500 shows the steps used to complete the configuration.

Each MFP 104 comes with pre-installed engine firmware and other firmware. The firmware may be of a particular version at the time MFP 104 is brought on-line. The firmware components may be upgraded after MFP 104 is shipped. Moreover, all MFPs and devices become old or obsolete. Future versions of the firmware may include features, bug fixes, enhancements, and the like. The new upgrades may not be backward compatible with existing firmware on MFP 104. The upgrades are known to the MFP manufacturer and may be catalogued at the factory or other location. A mapping of firmware versions may be provided at the factory, for example, and then contained in a server or on the internet/cloud. It may be in a database and shared through queries using SQL connections and other methods. In other words, the firmware upgrades and associated information may be accessible at a storage location on network 108 by printcast device 102. Alternatively, it may be possible to package this data and include it when setting up printcast device 102, either as a resource file or statically linked with its software components.

Step 502 executes by querying engine capabilities. Printcast printing computing system 300, and more specifically, printcast engine 324, can query for the mapping of firmware versions and associated data from a server, such as server 114, in order to determine what PDLs and technologies are enabled for MFP 104 and engine 106. It also may query what limitations, restrictions, concerns, and the like might apply to MFP 104. For example, printcast engine 324 queries for engine firmware versions, capabilities, and other relevant information in order to determine necessity for firmware upgrades or for determining what PDLs are supported on engine 106.

In some embodiments, the data may be included in printcast printing computing device 102 as static data. The static data may be a separate resource file stored in memory 304 or can be statically linked with printcast printing computing system 300. Printcast engine 324 may query only server 114 for data that is newer than what is already included locally in printcast device 102. In other words, printcast engine 324 may determine whether data about MFP 104 also needs to be upgraded.

Step 504 executes by determining engine parameters for engine 106 of MFP 104. Printcast engine 324 receives and processes data for its queries for engine restrictions, limitations, features, and other capabilities. With this data, printcast engine 324 effectively “knows” the capabilities, or lack thereof, of connected MFP 104. It may use this knowledge to provide and enable new features, enhancements, and upgraded capabilities and technologies to MFP 104.

This step also may be referred to as defining rules and capabilities. Printcast engine 324 may define at least three rules and capabilities. These may be shown in steps 506-510. Step 506 executes by defining PDL pass-through support. PDL pass-through support is enabled for PDLs that are known to be working on MFP 104 and have no critical issues. Print jobs may pass through printcast printing computing system 300 as normal, and may even go directly to communication layer 328 for output to MFP 104. Newer firmware versions or upgrades are not detected.

If the local PDL is known to have critical issues either in firmware or hardware, printcast engine 324 may intercept incoming print jobs with the compromised PDL. Printcast engine 324 processes the print jobs locally in printcast printing computing system 300 through RIP firmware 322. It then sends the print job to MFP 104 for processing. Though PDL pass-through support is enabled because MFP 104 includes the proper version of the local PDL, printcast engine 324 determines that the local PDL is corrupt, possibly due to ASIC, halftone, hard-drive, or ROM memory corruption and institutes this intercept mode. Printcast engine 324 may receive information about the local PDL from MFP 104.

Step 508 executes by defining the PDL intercept mode by printcast engine 324. The PDL intercept mode is similar to what is defined above. The print job for a PDL is intercepted and processed by printcast printing computing system 300. It is not passed through to MFP 104. If a new version of PDL is available for print job processing that is better than what is installed on MFP 104, then printcast engine 324 will intercept the print jobs with the PDL. The print jobs are processed locally on printcast device 102. Once processing is complete, the print job is output to engine 106.

Step 510 executes by optimizing for speed. If the rendering capabilities of engine 106 can be determined, then printcast engine 324 may enable generation, translation, or conversion of incoming print jobs to a format that is processed more efficiently on engine 106. For example, if printcast engine 324 determines that MFP 104 includes a version 2.3 of some compression and decompression algorithm in the application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC) of the MFP, then the printcast engine will inform RIP firmware 322 in printcast printing computing system 300 about such version. RIP firmware 322 would translate and convert applicable incoming print jobs not going through pass-through mode to generate the raster image representation of the pages in a format compliant to version 2.3 of the known compression and decompression algorithm in the ASIC of MFP 104.

Other rules may be enabled or disabled in order to take advantage of the processing power and upgraded features in printcast printing computing device 102. Examples of these rules may be defining and enabling restricted user access. Some users may not be able to use MFP 104 and these rules may change over time. Printcast device 102 can enforce these rules using printcast engine 324. Another example may be enabling document storage permissions. Rules also may include defining and assigning color or monochrome printing access on MFP 104. In other words, rules that apply to what or who can access MFP 104 may be enabled using printcast device 102 according to the disclosed embodiments.

Step 512 executes by enabling the features. Once printcast printing computing device 102 is configured and the rules are defined, it will apply and perform the rules as print jobs are received. Printcast engine 324 will treat print jobs accordingly. Printcast device 102 also may receive commands from administrators, such as pushed firmware upgrades. In this situation, a firmware upgrade may be received at printcast device 102. This may cause printcast engine 324 to move a local PDL from a pass-through parameter to an intercept mode one.

FIG. 6 depicts a flowchart 600 for processing a print job or a printcast command using printcast printing computing device 102 according to the disclosed embodiments. Flowchart 600 shows what happens if printcast device 102 receives data from another device within system 100. Preferably, an external device connected over network 108 sends the data to have some action performed, such as printing a document or asking printcast device 102 to perform a process. Step 602, therefore, executes by receiving a “print job” from an external, remote, or connected device or application. As disclosed above, printcast device 102 may be selected as a destination for the print job or action, like a printer or MFP 104. The term “print job” is used but this refers to real PDL print jobs as well as printcast commands.

Step 604 executes by scheduling the print job using print job manager 320. Print job manager 320 receives the print job request and schedules it accordingly. This is one reason all incoming requests are treated as “print jobs” in that they are scheduled as such. The jobs are processed in order. For example, printcast commands are not given preferential treatment over normal print jobs. Step 606 executes by receiving the print job at printcast engine 324 when it is scheduled for processing. Printcast engine 324 analyzes the print job to determine how it will be treated in printcast device 102.

Step 608 executes by analyzing the header of the print job. As disclosed above, the print job may include a specific header that identifies it as a printcast command. The header data includes an encoded start identifier, such as “% PrintCast!” in hexadecimal form. This alerts printcast engine 324 that the print job actually includes a printcast command for printcast printing computing system 300. After the header is determined, step 610 executes by determining whether the print job includes a printcast command using printcast engine 324. In some embodiments, the print job can include a plurality of printcast commands.

If step 610 is yes, then printcast engine 324 will process the print job as a printcast command. Printcast engine 324 will task components within printcast printing computing system 300 to perform the functionality specified in the command or launch applications within system 300 to accomplish tasks. This process is disclosed in greater detail below by FIGS. 7-10.

If step 610 is no, then printcast engine 324 will treat the print job as a normal PDL print job. Printcast engine 324 may determine the version of PCLXL or PDF interpreter already supported in engine 106 of MFP 104. With this information, printcast engine 324 may allow incoming PCLXL and PDF print jobs to pass-through and processed directly by MFP 104. If for any reason the version installed on engine 106 has a known bug that cannot be fixed with a firmware upgrade or there is some lack of support by engine 106, then the disclosed embodiments will process incoming print jobs in device 102 by pre-rendering it, and downloading only compatible data to MFP 104. Thus, incoming jobs identified as print jobs in step 610 may be processed in step 614 either by sending directly to engine 106 or processed in device 102. Further, if the intercept mode is enabled, as disclosed above, then the print job will be intercepted and processed by printcast device 102.

Step 616 executes by sending a result of steps 612 or 614 to MFP 104. The result may be data generated from the actions of computing system 300 either from the printcast command or PDL print job. The result is the data provided to MFP 104 due to the interaction of printcast device 102 with the incoming request from an external device. The data may be upgraded firmware to be deployed on MFP 104 or a processed document for printing. Preferably, the data is in a format usable by engine 106 or MFP 104. The result comes from communication layer 328 that communicates with MFP 104.

FIG. 7 depicts a flowchart 700 for processing a print job on MFP 104 using printcast printing computing device 102 according to the disclosed embodiments. Flowchart 700 corresponds to step 614, but step 614 is not limited by the steps disclosed in FIG. 7. The document received for printing on MFP 104 may be processed by printcast device 102 and sent as the result to directly to engine 106. As disclosed above, computing system 300 may include components that convert the received document into a PDL format compatible with engine 106 or other firmware within MFP 104.

If MFP 104 does not support the PDL in the incoming print job, then the incoming PDL print job will be processed in printcast device 102 if that PDL is supported within the device. Printcast device 102 intercepts all unsupported print job types and processes them internally using computing system 300.

Printcast engine 324 may perform firmware upgrades on MFP 104 if it finds that there is available newer firmware. Such newer or upgraded firmware may be available over network 108 from service 114 or other source. Firmware upgrades also may be pushed through printcast device 102 using a printcast command. In some embodiments, these features are used to upgrade printing devices on the production floor, to restore “back to life” unused MFPs, to integrate third-party MFPs as part of a fleet of managed imaging devices, or to add new features or capabilities to the third-party MFPs.

Each imaging device, like MFP 104 or printers, include ASIC, graphics processors, CPUs, data buses, specific and limited random access memory (RAM)/read-only memory (ROM) memory sizes, hard-drive format(s), and specific firmware technologies for data compression, encoding, and encryptions. All of these define a MFP to be, for example, a version 2.4 of a certain model of the product line. Each new upgrade to the product line includes new sets of any or all of the hardware, firmware, and software components that make the new sets less and less backward compatible. A new iteration in the product line is expected to improve on the functionality, performance, and features of previous devices. The result is that older products may be considered less valuable as time goes by.

Thus, printcast device 102 may bring those older MFPs and printers back online to gain new value. Use of the legacy devices extends the product life and provides better return on investment (ROI) to businesses and customers that utilize printcast device 102. In order to realize this, printcast device 102 may know the capabilities, technologies, and limitations of each version or model of MFP 104. Printcast device 102 may query for such information from MFP 104 itself, from a local network server, such as server 114, from the original equipment manufacturer (OEM), or from a server or location in the cloud.

When printcast device 102 knows which ASIC, graphics processors, memory sizes, hard-drive formats, and the associated algorithms for data compression, encoding, and processing, it is possible for the device to generate and render backward compatible PDL print jobs that are printed efficiently and with high quality on MFP 104. Thus, the PDL print job generated for one model of a MFP or printer may be different when printcast device 102 is connected to another model of the MFP or printer.

Referring to FIG. 7, step 702 executes by defining the rules and capabilities for printcast device 102 and MFP 104. This step corresponds to steps 504, 506, 508, and 510 in FIG. 5. Printcast engine 324 receives and processes data for its queries for engine restrictions, limitations, features, and other capabilities. Printcast engine 324 may know the capabilities, or lack thereof, of MFP 104. Printcast engine 324, in turn, knows when to intercept a print job before delivering it to MFP 104 and when to let it pass through. As discussed above, printcast engine 324 intercepts print jobs with PDLs known to have critical issues or are not supported by MFP 104. Printcast engine 324 also may intercept print jobs if a version hosted by printcast device 102 is better than what is installed on MFP 104.

Step 704 executes by receiving the PDL print job at printcast printing computing system 300. Step 706 executes by determining the rules for the PDL print job that are applicable. Based on the rules and capabilities of MFP 104, step 708 determines whether to intercept the PDL print job for processing within printcast device 102. Printcast engine 324 may determine whether to intercept the PDL print job if the rules defined earlier apply to the specific job.

If step 708 is no, then step 710 executes by sending the PDL print job to communications layer 328. The PDL print job is supported by the firmware and hardware in MFP 104 so there is no need for processing within printcast device 102. Step 712 executes by downloading the PDL print job to MFP 104 from printcast device 102. Step 716 executes by printing the document of the PDL print job using engine 106, much like a normal print job sent to MFP 104. Other actions also may be taken at this step other than printing, such as storing the document or making it available for editing using MFP 104 or another attached device.

If step 708 is yes, then printcast engine 324 intercepts the PDL print job for processing in printcast device 102 using printcast printing computing system 300. This step is disclosed in greater detail below in FIGS. 8-12. Once processing is complete, flowchart 700 proceeds to step 710 to send the PDL print job to communications layer 328.

FIG. 8 depicts a flowchart 800 for processing a PDL print job in printcast device 102 according to the disclosed embodiments. Flowchart 800 may correspond to step 714 disclosed in flowchart 700. Step 714, however, is not limited to the embodiments shown in flowchart 800.

In order to achieve the best performance for PDL print jobs generated by printcast device 102, the generated PDL print jobs preferably will be print jobs containing a rasterized image. A rasterized image may be one that is already processed through PDL interpreter 330 and graphics rendering component 332 of RIP firmware 322. The raster image is in a format that can be processed directly in engine 106 of MFP 104 without having to go through duplicate or re-processing through the RIP firmware local to engine 106. The raster image preferably is in a format that the engine firmware of MFP 104 can directly process to render pixels onto paper because it is in a “native” format to be processed directly by engine 106. The engine compatible raster image will be wrapped to appear like a regular print job, but one that engine 106 can process directly. Thus, the engine compatible raster image may be device dependent to the connected MFP.

Step 802 executes by providing the PDL print job to RIP firmware 322 of printcast printing computing system 300. Step 708 of flowchart 700 determines that the PDL print job should be intercepted according to the rules set forth for MFP 104. Printcast engine 324 applies the rules to intercept the PDL print job.

Step 804 executes by determining the best format for the PDL print job in order to download it to engine 106 of MFP 104. The main content of the print job sent to MFP 104 is the raster image generated within printcast device 102. The raster image should be a band-by-band compressed data representation of the rendered document pages that can be processed directly at engine 106. For the best performance and compatibility, the raster image is processed at the raster processing unit level of engine 106. In some embodiments, the compressed binary format may be an “MFP native format.” Thus, printcast engine 324 determines the best way to achieve the raster image for download to MFP 104.

Four methods may be selected for formatting the PDL print job. Additional methods may be considered as well. Alternatively, some printcast devices may only implement three or less of the disclosed methods. The four methods are disclosed in greater detail in FIGS. 9-12. As shown in FIG. 8, step 806 executes by translating the PDL print job to native PDL. The raster image generated by RIP firmware 322 is wrapped inside a regular PDL print job for MFP 104. Step 808 executes by generating a wrapped raster image in a supported image format. This step generates the raster image in one of the supported image for formats that MFP 104 already can print. Step 810 executes by generating a wrapped raster image in an MFP native format. A new PDL is used to identify the print job generated by printcast device 102 as a print job that contains a band-by-band compressed raster image in the MFP native format for MFP 104. Step 812 executes by translating the PDL print job to a third party PDL. The raster image is wrapped in a format that MFP 104 already supports, such as a third party PDL. Examples of third party PDLs may be proprietary by well-known printer control languages or page description languages.

A summary of the processes disclosed below in FIG. 9-12 provides an overview of how printcast device 102 differentiates processed print jobs in the formats from the regular print jobs in those formats. In other words, print jobs generated by printcast device 102 should be identifiable and differentiated from other PDL print jobs. One way to do this is adding job parameters that identify the new kind of print jobs as printcast generated print jobs.

In some embodiments, a printcast print job file format specification may be implemented. The file format may be similar to other binary PDLs that have PJL, PRESCRIBE, or other job parameter wrappers. The following is an example of a PCLXL print job with printcast print job parameters, underlined below.

%-12345X@PJL JOB NAME=”job name” @PJL SET TIMEOUT=300 @PJL SET RESOLUTION=600 @PJL SET BITSPERPIXEL=1 @PJL COMMENT=”INFO:NUP 1; DUPLEX OFF; QTY 1; COLORMODE COLOR;” @PJL COMMENT=”APP:C:\Program Files\Microsoft Office\OFFICE11\WINWORD.EXE;” @PJL SET ECONOMODE=OFF @PJL SET USERNAME=”username” @PJL SET JOBNAME=”job name” @PJL SET PRINTCAST_MODE=TRUE (printcast print job parameter) @PJL SET PRINTCAST_JOB_ID=100 (printcast print job parameter) @PJL SET QTY=1 @PJL SET KPAGESPERSHEET=1 @PJL ENTER LANGUAGE=PCLXL

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

%-12345X@PJL EOJ NAME=”job name” %-12345X

The binary data in the middle of the file is the band-by-band compressed data representation of the document pages within the print job. The binary data shown above is an example of how the main binary data may look.

The print job shown above may include print job parameters in PJL, XPS PrintTickets formats, or PRESCRIBE or other job parameter specifications depending on the PDL type of the print job. The job parameters may identify the printcast print job as a print job with native raster image content. In some embodiments, the printcast job parameters are printcast mode and printcast job identification (ID). Other printcast job parameters may be defined such as document name, file name, timestamp of printing, CRC code for encoding all of the information to ensure the same document is to be processed, and the like. Additional printcast job parameters may be added, as needed, in order to facilitate the processing of a print job generated by printcast device 102.

The printcast mode job parameter may be a new command to alert MFP 104 that an incoming PDL print job is a printcast print job. In other words, the incoming print job is already processed in printcast device 102. In some embodiments, the printcast mode job parameter may be a command with a possible TRUE or FALSE value. If the parameter does not exist, then the setting is defaulted to OFF or FALSE. When TRUE, the firmware in MFP 104 may skip processing the print job through its local PDL interpreter and graphics rendering component. The print job may be downloaded directly to engine 106.

In other embodiments, the printcast mode job parameter is a keyword that corresponds to a PDL command. RIP firmware 322 adds this in the generated print job to inform MFP 104 and its associated firmware that the incoming print job contains a raster image that is in the “native” format. The print job may be downloaded directly to engine 106.

In further embodiments, the printcast mode job parameter may be a setting of 0, or false, and 1, or true. The setting is a new command that corresponds to a mode command for the PDL. RIP firmware 322 adds this setting in the generated print job to inform MFP 104 and its associated firmware that the incoming print job contains a raster image that is in the “native” format. Like the ones above, the print job may be downloaded directly to engine 106.

Another printcast parameter is the printcast job ID job parameter. A job ID may be assigned to each print job generated by printcast device 102. The job ID may be used for job management, such as cancellation, pause, and other functionalities that applications may want to perform on the print job. This parameter may be a numeric counter generated in printcast engine 324 and added to the generated print job.

Once the print job is generated by printcast printing computing system 300 and printcast device 102, step 814 downloads the generated print job to MFP 104. This step also may include sending the generated print job to communications layer 328, which then sends it to MFP 104. As noted above, the generated print job should alert MFP 104 that it can bypass firmware and go to engine 106 for printing.

FIG. 9 depicts a flowchart 900 for translating the PDL print job to native PDL using printcast device 102 according to the disclosed embodiments. Flowchart 900 may correspond to step 806 disclosed in flowchart 800. Step 806, however, is not limited to the embodiments shown in flowchart 900. The processes disclosed by flowchart 800 may be known as translating the PDL print job to a known PDL language, which is supported by MFP 104. Thus, flowchart 900 wraps the resulting raster image generated by RIP firmware 322 inside a regular PDL print job, such as PCL5, PCLXL, XPS, or other PDLs. As disclosed above, printcast device 102 may be upgraded with available PDLs as needed.

Step 902 executes by creating a file buffer for the print job. The file buffer may be created in memory 304 of printcast device 102. The file buffer will temporarily store the print job while being processed.

Step 904 executes by generating the native PDL job, document, and page headers. Step 906 also may be executed to add job, document, and page tickets to the print job. These steps format the headers for the native PDL print job to be populated by the data from the received print job. The headers may match the format disclosed above along with printcast print job parameters that inform MFP 104 that the print job has already been formatted for printing by RIP firmware 322.

Step 908 executes by generating the native PDL commands. Step 910 also executes with step 908 by translating the incoming PDL commands to the native PDL commands. Printcast engine 324 may obtain the native PDL commands from MFP 104 and its associated firmware. Then, it translates an incoming command to a native command by associating the incoming command with the corresponding native command. These associations may be stored within printcast device 102 and accessible by printcast printing computing system 300. The native PDL print job is populated with the translated PDL commands.

Step 912 executes by generating the native PDL job, document, and page footer data for the native PDL print job. The footers may be created after the translated PDL commands and the band-by-band compressed data of the document pages. Step 914 executes by closing the file buffer and forwarding the translated native PDL print job to communication layer 328 for download to MFP 104.

FIG. 10 depicts flowchart 1000 for generating a raster image in a supported image format according to the disclosed embodiments. Flowchart 1000 may correspond to step 808 disclosed in flowchart 800. Step 808, however, is not limited to the embodiments shown in flowchart 1000. Flowchart 1000 generates the raster image in one of the supported image formats that MFP 104 already can print, such as JPG, TIFF, PNG, and the like. This feature may be especially desirable when printing an image, like a picture, from a mobile device, such as device 110, to MFP 104. Device 110 may send a print job in an image format not recognized by MFP 104. Printcast device 102 determines that the print job needs to be intercepted and converted to a supported image format.

Step 1002 executes by creating the file buffer for the print job. The file buffer may be created in memory 304 of printcast device 102. The file buffer will temporarily store the print job while being processed.

Step 1004 executes by generating the raster image format headers. The headers resemble the example headers disclosed above having the printcast print job parameters inserted. Step 1006 executes by processing the incoming PDL print job by RIP firmware 322.

Step 1008 executes by generating bands of raw data by graphics rendering component 332. Step 1010 also executes by converting each generated band from graphics rendering component 332 to a raster image format. Step 1010 may be accomplished by printcast engine 324.

Step 1012 executes by updating the raster image dimension with the converted band. Step 1014 executes by finalizing other file properties for the raster image. Step 1016 executes by closing the file buffer of the print job and forwarding the print job to communication layer 328.

FIG. 11 depicts a flowchart 1100 for generating a print job in a native format according to the disclosed embodiments. Flowchart 1100 may correspond to step 810 disclosed in flowchart 800. Step 810, however, is not limited to the embodiments shown in flowchart 1100. The disclosed embodiments may generate a new PDL to identify the printcast generated print job as a print job that contains band-by-band compressed raster image data in a native format for MFP 104, or MFP native format. MFP native format may refer to the compressed binary format for the main content of the print job. The main content may be the printcast generated raster image. The raster image is a band-by-band compressed data representation of the rendered document pages that can be processed directly at the engine firmware of MFP 104.

Step 1102 executes by creating a file buffer for the print job. The file buffer may be created in memory 304 of printcast device 102. The file buffer will temporarily store the print job while being processed.

Step 1104 executes by generating the PDL job, document, and page headers. The headers may match the format disclosed above along with printcast print job parameters that inform MFP 104 that the print job has already been formatted for printing by RIP firmware 322. Step 1106 executes by processing the incoming print job by RIP firmware 322. The print job may be processed through PDL interpreter 330, as disclosed above.

Step 1108 executes by generating band of raw data by graphics rendering component 332. Step 1110 also may execute by storing each generated band of data in the native format. The bands of data may represent the binary data that is a representation of the document pages. Step 1112 executes by finalizing the file properties for the print job having the bands of data. Step 1114 executes by closing the file buffer of the print job and forwarding the print job to communication layer 328.

FIG. 12 depicts a flowchart 1200 for translating the print job to a third-party PDL according to the disclosed embodiments. Flowchart 1200 may correspond to step 812 disclosed in flowchart 800. Step 812, however, is not limited to the embodiments shown in flowchart 1200. A translation to a third party PDL may be preferred when MFP 104 supports a PDL not readily supported by printcast device 102. The PDL may be a third party PDL from another manufacturer or entity. Thus, MFP 104 may not have the same manufacturer as printcast device 102. In these instances, the third party PDL may be made available to printcast device 102. As such, printcast device 102 may translate incoming PDL print jobs to the third party PDL supported by MFP 104.

Step 1202 executes by creating a file buffer for the print job. The file buffer may be created in memory 304 of printcast device 102. The file buffer will temporarily store the print job while being processed.

Step 1204 executes by generating the third party PDL print job, document, and page headers. Step 1206 also may execute to add job, document, and page tickets to the print job. These steps format the headers for the third party PDL print job to be populated by the data from the received print job. The headers may match the format disclosed above along with printcast print job parameters that inform MFP 104 that the print job has already been formatted for printing by RIP firmware 322.

Step 1208 executes by generating third party PDL commands. Step 1210 also executes with step 1208 by translating the incoming PDL commands to the third party PDL commands. Printcast engine 324 may obtain the third party PDL commands from MFP 104 and its associated firmware, or from an upgraded printing device. Then, it translates an incoming command to a third party command by associating the incoming command with the corresponding third party command. These associations may be stored within printcast device 102 and accessible by printcast printing computing system 300.

Step 1212 executes by generating the third party's PDL print job, document, and any page footer data in the file. The footers may be created after the translated PDL commands and the band-by-band compressed data of the document pages. Step 1214 executes by closing the file buffer and forwarding the translated third party PDL print job to communication layer 328 for download to MFP 104.

Thus, a device attached or connected to a MFP device may receive print jobs from external devices and computers over network. The print jobs may vary in format and type. The printcast engine determines whether to intercept the print job for processing within the printcast printing computing system in the printcast device. If so, then the processed print job may go directly to the engine in the MFP.

As will be appreciated by one skilled in the art, the present invention may be embodied as a system, method or computer program product. Accordingly, the present invention may take the form of an entirely hardware embodiment, an entirely software embodiment (including firmware, resident software, micro-code, etc.) or an embodiment combining software and hardware aspects that may all generally be referred to herein as a “circuit,” “module” or “system.” Furthermore, the present invention may take the form of a computer program product embodied in any tangible medium of expression having computer-usable program code embodied in the medium.

Any combination of one or more computer usable or computer readable medium(s) may be utilized. The computer-usable or computer-readable medium may be, for example but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, device, or propagation medium. More specific examples (a non-exhaustive list) of the computer-readable medium would include the following: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a transmission media such as those supporting the Internet or an intranet, or a magnetic storage device. Note that the computer-usable or computer-readable medium could even be paper or another suitable medium upon which the program is printed, as the program can be electronically captured, via, for instance, optical scanning of the paper or other medium, then compiled, interpreted, or otherwise processed in a suitable manner, if necessary, and then stored in a computer memory.

Computer program code for carrying out operations of the present invention may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object oriented programming language such as Java, Smalltalk, C++ or the like and conventional procedural programming languages, such as the “C” programming language or similar programming languages. The program code may execute entirely on the user's computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user's computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer may be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection may be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider).

The present invention is described with reference to flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems) and computer program products according to embodiments of the invention. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and/or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions may be provided to a processor of a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions/acts specified in the flowchart and/or block diagram block or blocks.

The flowchart and block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods and computer program products according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that, in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and/or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts, or combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting of the invention. As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an” and “the” are intended to include plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “comprises” and/or “comprising,” when used in this specification, specific the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and/or groups thereof.

Embodiments may be implemented as a computer process, a computing system or as an article of manufacture such as a computer program product of computer readable media. The computer program product may be a computer storage medium readable by a computer system and encoding a computer program instructions for executing a computer process. When accessed, the instructions cause a processor to enable other components to perform the functions disclosed above.

The corresponding structures, material, acts, and equivalents of all means or steps plus function elements in the claims below are intended to include any structure, material or act for performing the function in combination with other claimed elements are specifically claimed. The description of the present invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description, but is not intended to be exhaustive or limited to the invention in the form disclosed. Many modifications and variations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. The embodiment was chosen and described in order to best explain the principles of the invention and the practical application, and to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the invention for embodiments with various modifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated.

One or more portions of the disclosed networks or systems may be distributed across one or more MFP systems coupled to a network capable of exchanging information and data. Various functions and components of the MFP system may be distributed across multiple client computer platforms, or configured to perform tasks as part of a distributed system. These components may be executable, intermediate or interpreted code that communicates over the network using a protocol. The components may have specified addresses or other designators to identify the components within the network.

It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications to the disclosed may be made without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers the modifications and variations disclosed above provided that these changes come within the scope of the claims and their equivalents. 

1. A printing computing device for performing printing operations to print documents at a multi-function printing (MFP) device connected to a network, the printing computing device comprising: a print job manager to schedule a print job received over the network; a print engine to determine whether the print job includes a page description language (PDL) print job that is supported on the MFP device and to intercept the PDL print job if it is not supported on the MFP device; a raster image processing (RIP) firmware to process the PDL print job from the print job manager, wherein the RIP firmware comprises a PDL interpreter and a graphics rendering component such that the RIP firmware supports the PDL print job that is not supported on the MFP device; and a communication layer to send the processed PDL print job from the printing computing device to the detachably connected MFP device to print, wherein the printing computing device is separable from the MFP device to externally process the print job for the MFP device, the print job being received from an external device over the network according to an internet protocol (IP) address unique to the printing computing device.
 2. The printing computing device of claim 1, further comprising a power supply not located within the MFP device.
 3. The printing computing device of claim 2, further comprising connectors to connect the power supply to the MFP device.
 4. The printing computing device of claim 1, further comprising an operating system.
 5. (canceled)
 6. The printing computing device of claim 1, wherein the engine is configured to pass through the PDL print job to the communication layer according to a rule corresponding to the MFP device.
 7. The printing computing device of claim 1, further comprising a memory having a file buffer to store the PDL print job.
 8. A method for processing a print job at a printing computing device for printing at a multi-function printing (MFP) device, the method comprising: determining whether a print job received from an external device includes a page description language (PDL) print job that is supported on the MFP device using a print engine; intercepting the PDL print job if it is not supported on the MFP device as determined by the print engine; processing the PDL print job using a raster image processing (RIP) firmware within the printing computing device such that the RIP firmware supports the PDL print job that is not supported on the MFP device; processing the PDL print job using the RIP firmware; and sending the processed PDL print job to a communication layer to send to the detachably connected MFP device, wherein the processed PDL print job is in a format ready for printing by the MFP device, wherein the printing computing device is separable from the MFP device to externally process the print job for the MFP device, the print job being received from the external device over the network according to an internet protocol (IP) address unique to the printing computing device.
 9. The method of claim 8, wherein determining includes analyzing a header of the print job to determine whether it is the PDL print job supported by the MFP device.
 10. (canceled)
 11. (canceled)
 12. The method of claim 8, wherein the processing step includes translating the PDL print job to a native PDL supported by the MFP device.
 13. The method of claim 8, wherein the processing step includes generating the processed PDL print job in an image format supported by the MFP device.
 14. The method of claim 8, wherein the processing step includes generating the processed PDL print job in a native format supported by the MFP device.
 15. The method of claim 8, wherein the processing step includes translating the PDL print job to a third party PDL supported by the MFP device.
 16. A method for using a printing computing device to process print jobs to send to a multi-functional printing (MFP) device, the method comprising: receiving a print job at a print job manager within the printing computing device; analyzing a header of the print job using a print engine when scheduled by the print job manager; determining whether the print job includes a PDL print job according to the header using the print engine that is supported by the MFP device; intercepting the PDL print job if it is not supported by the MFP device; determining a format for the PDL print job by the print engine; processing the PDL print job according to the format using a raster image processing (RIP) firmware in the printing computing device, wherein the RIP firmware is not supported on the MFP device; and sending the processed PDL print job to the detachably connected MFP device using a communication layer within the printing computing device, wherein the printing computing device is separable from the MFP device to externally process the print job for the MFP device, the print job being received from an external device over the network according to an internet protocol (IP) address unique to the printing computing device.
 17. The method of claim 16, further comprising generating at least one print job parameter for the processed PDL print job.
 18. The method of claim 17, wherein the at least one print job parameter indicates that RIP firmware processing of the PDL print job has been completed when received by the MFP device.
 19. The method of claim 17, wherein the at least one print job parameter includes a mode job parameter or a job identification job parameter.
 20. The method of claim 16, further comprising passing the print job through to the communication layer when instructed by the engine. 